By August 4, 2026
As summer winds down, August is a great time to support local businesses, celebrate the strength of our diverse communities, and check in on your financial well-being.
As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Verity believes opportunity should be accessible to everyone. This month, we're highlighting observances and local events that celebrate inclusion, strengthen community connections, and promote financial wellness.
Month-long Observances & Celebrations
National Black Business Month
August is National Black Business Month, a time to recognize and support Black entrepreneurs whose businesses help create jobs, strengthen local economies, and preserve culture. The observance also offers an opportunity to reflect on the long history of Black entrepreneurship and the resilience of Black communities despite generations of systemic barriers.
One example is the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, which destroyed the thriving Greenwood District, known as "Black Wall Street", and erased generations of Black wealth and opportunity. Despite these challenges, Black entrepreneurs continue to drive innovation and strengthen communities across the country
Supporting Black-owned businesses is one way to keep more dollars circulating within local communities while discovering new restaurants, retailers, and service providers. This month, consider trying a new business, sharing a recommendation, or leaving a positive review for a business you already enjoy.
Looking for ways to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses locally?
You can also search #BlackBusinessMonth on social media to discover businesses, events, and stories in your community.
Events and Day Observances
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples — August 9
Observed each year on August 9, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples recognizes the cultures, knowledge, rights, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples around the world.
The 2026 theme, “Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being,” recognizes the vital role Indigenous midwives play in protecting maternal health, sharing traditional knowledge, and supporting the well-being of families and communities.
This day is also an opportunity to learn about Indigenous sovereignty, listen to Indigenous-led organizations, and support efforts to preserve languages, traditions, and community knowledge.
This year's observance also includes a virtual commemoration highlighting the important role Indigenous midwives play in preserving traditional knowledge and supporting healthier communities.
Virtual Commemoration: Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026
Time: 8:30-10:30 a.m. (New York time)
Spread the word! Search and use the hashtag #IndigenousPeoples on social media to promote awareness.
National Financial Awareness Day — August 14
Observed on August 14 each year, National Financial Awareness Day provides a timely reminder to review your finances, reflect on your goals and values, and consider what steps could help you feel more confident about your financial future.
Whether you’re checking your credit report, building an emergency fund, exploring strategies to pay down debt, or scheduling time to discuss your goals with a financial coach, even one small step today can make a big difference tomorrow.
Verity members have access to financial wellness resources, including support from our financial coaching team, and GreenPath Financial Wellness.
World Humanitarian Day — August 19
World Humanitarian Day recognizes humanitarian workers and others who help others by providing essential assistance to people affected by conflict, disasters, and other crises. It also honors those who have been injured or killed while serving communities in need.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly, the observance is held annually on August 19 and calls attention to the safety of humanitarian workers and the dignity and well-being of the people they serve.
Consider supporting a trusted relief organization, learning about humanitarian efforts around the world, or recognizing those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
Women’s Equality Day — August 26
Women’s Equality Day commemorates the certification of the 19th Amendment on August 26, 1920, which prohibited denying the right to vote based on sex. The observance recognizes the work of the women’s suffrage movement while also encouraging continued efforts to secure and expand equal rights. It offers an opportunity to reflect on progress and the work that remains in areas such as leadership, representation, economic opportunity, and equal pay.
Community Events with Verity
erity is proud to support events and organizations that bring neighbors together, celebrate culture, and connect families with helpful community resources. Looking for something to do this month? We'd love to see you out in the community! Stop by and say hello at one of these events we're proud to support.
Seattle Night Out
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Neighborhood events throughout Seattle
Seattle Night Out is promoted by the Seattle Police Department Crime Prevention and brings neighbors together through block parties and community gatherings focused on connection, public safety, and crime prevention.
The event is promoted locally by the Seattle Police Department and traditionally takes place on the first Tuesday in August. In 2026, participating neighborhoods will gather on Tuesday, August 4.
Othello Park International Festival
Saturday, August 9, 2026 | Noon–6 p.m.
Othello Park, 4351 S. Othello St., Seattle
Celebrate the cultural richness of Southeast Seattle at the Othello Park International Festival. From lion dancers to breakdancers, traditional weaving to modern embroidered apparel, Philly cheesesteaks to enchiladas de mole, this free, family-friendly event has something for everyone!
The festival has been held in Othello Park since 2009 and regularly features dozens of performers, vendors and community partners. Enjoy live music, dance, food, art, games, cultural booths, and activities for all ages. Verity is proud to support this celebration of culture, community, and connection.
Seattle Municipal Court Community Resource Day
Friday, August 21, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Rainier Community Center, 4600 38th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
Verity is proud to participate in Seattle Municipal Court's Community Resource Day, connecting justice-impacted community members with financial resources, support, and information about our new Rainier branch coming this October! Stop by to meet the team, ask questions, and learn how we're investing in the Rainier community.
Rainier Beach Back2School Bash
August 22, 2026 | Noon–4 p.m.
Rainier Beach Community Center Plaza
8825 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle
Start the school year with resources, activities and family-friendly fun at the 23rd Annual Rainier Beach Back2School Bash, hosted by the Rainier Beach Action Coalition.
The free community event helps local students prepare for school with backpacks, supplies, and family resources while creating space for neighbors to gather and celebrate.
Verity is proud to support an event grounded in youth success, equity, and community connection. We'll be there celebrating with Rainier Beach families as they get ready for a new school year. Stop by Verity's table to say hello, learn about our new Rainier branch, and discover helpful financial resources while you're enjoying the festivities.
Several of these events are part of our Road to Rainier celebration as we prepare to open our newest branch. We'd love to see you there. See All Rainier Grand Opening Events
We acknowledge that we may not have listed every celebration or observance important to you and your community. If you have a suggestion for inclusion, please email feedback@veritycu.com.
The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. All content is written in good faith and is intended to be accurate as of the date of publication. However, laws, regulations, industry standards, and best practices may change over time, and information may become outdated.